Contents

Tom Hopper began his career with Boston United. Hopper became Boston's youngest ever player, when aged 15 he featured in the UniBond League Premier Division.[3] In the summer of 2010, Hopper signed for Leicester City and immediately began impressing in the club's youth teams.

Hopper signed his first professional contract with Leicester City in October 2011.[4] On 28 January 2012, Hopper was allocated the number 37 shirt and named on the substitutes bench for Leicester's FA Cup match against Swindon Town. He made his début as an 81st minute substitute for David Nugent. Leicester won the match 2–0.[5] Hopper said of his debut that "It all seems like a blur, but something I have really enjoyed".[6]

Manager Nigel Pearson was said to be impressed by the youngster.[7] In May 2012, he was named as Leicester City's Academy Player of the Season.[8] Hopper was given the 21 number for the 2012/13 season.[9]

On 14 September, Hopper joined Bury on a one month loan deal.[15] Hopper scored twice in his first six games during a month-long loan spell at Bury, including his first ever professional league goal against Stevenage[16] and Crawley Town.[17] On 16 October Hopper extended his loan at Bury until 3 January 2013, which was then extended for the remaineder of the 2012–13 season on 4 January 2013.[18] Hopper's loan spell was cut short and he was sent back to Leicester City on 7 February 2013.[19]

On 8 January 2015, Hopper joined League One outfit Scunthorpe United on a one month loan.[20] Hopper made his debut on 10 January 2015, scoring in the 4–1 victory against Walsall.[21] After scoring 4 goals in 4 games, Hopper's loan was extended until the end on the season on 2 February 2015.[22] Hopper was nominated for the Sky Bet League One Player of the Month award for January, missing out to Dele Alli of MK Dons.[23]